Community pressure has triumphed in Crieff with the announcement that controversial gas works, first proposed for the summer season, have been pushed back until the start of next year.
The gas main replacement programme on the Crieff to Muthill road had been criticised by local businesses, who warned the timing could have a “devastating effect” on the Perthshire town’s tourist trade.
However, gas company SGN has now agreed to push back the work until January 2020.
The firm has also abandoned plans to shut North Bridge Street and will instead use a traffic light controlled contraflow system to keep the road open.
SGN announced the new plans during a second consultation with residents on Tuesday.
Andy Furye, SGN project manager, said: “The aim of holding a consultation with the public was to gain feedback and any relevant information which would help us in the planning stages of our project.
“There was concern around the time of year our work would take place, and the potential impact on tourism trade and events taking place throughout the summer in Crieff.
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“After close consultation with the local authority and community, we’ll now start out project in the North Bridge Street area of Crieff in January 2020.
“We’ll keep the local community up to date with our plans and prior notification will be given.”
Stuart McLaren, managing director of Crieff Visitor Centre welcomed the news. “This is a big relief,” he said. “We’re pleased that SGN has taken notice of our concerns and come back with a solution which will cause far less interference.”
Local politicians also hailed the concessions.
Conservative councillor Roz McCall said: “I am delighted that SGN have committed to a winter work schedule for the upgrading of the Crieff pipework and will keep the road open.
“Thanks to all involved. ”
Conservative MSP Liz Smith said: “I am glad that a decision has been made to progress with the roadworks during the winter months and that the single lane bridge will remain open, as this would have caused significant disruption.
“Many Crieff businesses had specifically requested that the works take place in winter rather than during the peak summer tourist season so I am pleased that their wishes had been heeded.”
Roseanna Cunningham, SNP MSP, said: “I will be taking a close look at the detail on these plans but I am pleased that SGN appear to have listened to the various concerns that were very clearly expressed to them during the consultation period.
“It is particularly welcome news that there will be no requirement for the bridge to be shut to traffic entirely.”
